In 2014 I got engaged to my now husband. Like most brides I was super excited to start planning all the fun details! I knew I wanted something intimate and special all without breaking the bank. I struggled to find options that met both needs and eventually put our engagement on the back burner….way back there. Five years, later in 2019, I started planning for our 50 guest wedding. I truly embraced the DIY spirit. I sourced everything—venue, DJ, photographer, hair, alterations for us and our kids, decor, bar setup, linens, and more. Despite doing it all myself, we ended up paying what a 100‑guest wedding would have cost. It was frustrating—but I wouldn’t change a thing from our special day.

My high school teacher from 30 years ago officiated; my son walked me down the aisle; my daughter was my maid of honor; and my “bonus son” stood as best man. We were married in a charming gazebo in the Heights—a spot my husband and I still visit for picnics and sweet reminiscence.

Our wedding planted a seed in my heart—to offer other couples the same intimate experience, without the hefty price tag. In 2021, I signed a contract to purchase a venue, but those plans eventually fell through. After a season of waiting and discouragement, the dream was rekindled in 2024.

As I explored options for intimate weddings, I noticed a growing trend: more and more DIY event halls, often tucked inside shopping centers. While the interiors can be beautifully decorated, these venues still come with the stress of planning and executing a wedding on your own. Other venues offer “all-inclusive” packages, which typically include the basics—chairs, tables, minimal décor, and photo access to the grounds.

But I want to give my clients more than the bare minimum. I constantly ask myself, “If I were the bride, would I feel excited walking into this space? Would I feel good about paying this price if I still had to take care of so many details?”

I know in my heart I have something special to offer. This isn’t just about the bottom line as a business owner. Trust me, when I was looking at it that way, God quickly humbled me and gave me a greater purpose for this business. Having been together for 15 years (married for 6), I understand the financial and emotional weight of planning a wedding. I’m able to understand the depth of the vows, of the commitment we are making to each each other. I understand that there is much more to a marriage besides the wedding day. To me, this is about giving back when God has given me so much. This is about combining all these things while giving couples the ability to use their financial resources not just on one BIG day, but also towards maybe a once in a lifetime honeymoon or a down payment for your first home as husband and wife. Maybe even giving others the opportunity to become entrepreneurs or chase their dreams. A wedding should be beautiful and memorable—but it shouldn’t deplete your future dreams.

I pour my heart into your special day so you can start your new chapter with lasting memories—and a strong financial foundation.

Joanna Galvez

Matthew 19:26